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{{Infobox Neighborhood
{{Infobox LocalBusiness
| name = Penn's Landing
| name = Penn's Landing
| type = Waterfront district
| image =
| location = Center City
| image_caption = Penn's Landing waterfront
| zip_codes = 19106
| type = Waterfront park, landmark
| established = 1967 (current development)
| address = 101 South Columbus Boulevard
| named_for = William Penn's landing site
| neighborhood = Old City
| boundaries = Delaware River waterfront from Vine Street to Washington Avenue
| coordinates = 39.9444,-75.1395
| adjacent_neighborhoods = [[Old City, Philadelphia|Old City]], [[Society Hill]], [[Queen Village]]
| phone = (215) 922-2386
| major_streets = Columbus Boulevard (Delaware Avenue)
| website = https://www.delawareriverwaterfront.com
| transit = Market-Frankford Line (2nd Street Station), Bus Routes
| established = 1967
| notable_landmarks = Independence Seaport Museum, Spruce Street Harbor Park, RiverRink
| founder = City of Philadelphia
| owner = City of Philadelphia / Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
| employees =
| hours = Open 24 hours (outdoor areas)
| products = Waterfront recreation, events, attractions
| status = Active
}}
}}


'''Penn's Landing''' is the Delaware River waterfront area in [[Philadelphia]], named for the traditional site where William Penn first landed in 1682. The area has been developed as a public park and entertainment district, featuring seasonal attractions, the Independence Seaport Museum, and views of the Delaware River and Camden waterfront. Penn's Landing hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.<ref name="visitphilly">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/penns-landing/ |title=Penn's Landing |publisher=Visit Philadelphia |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>
'''Penn's Landing''' is a waterfront park and event space along the [[Delaware River]] in [[Old City, Philadelphia|Old City]], commemorating the traditional site where '''William Penn''' first landed in the New World in 1682. Stretching along Columbus Boulevard from Market Street to South Street, Penn's Landing serves as Philadelphia's primary connection to its riverfront, hosting festivals, concerts, outdoor activities, and seasonal attractions including an ice skating rink and beer garden.<ref name="drwc">{{cite web |url=https://www.delawareriverwaterfront.com/places/penns-landing |title=Penn's Landing |publisher=Delaware River Waterfront Corporation |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>
 
The area has undergone significant redevelopment in recent decades, with new attractions including [[Cherry Street Pier]], [[Race Street Pier]], and [[Spruce Street Harbor Park]] transforming the waterfront from an underutilized highway barrier into a vibrant destination. Ongoing projects aim to further connect Center City to the river and create a continuous waterfront park system.<ref name="visit">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/penns-landing/ |title=Penn's Landing |publisher=Visit Philadelphia |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==


=== William Penn's Landing ===
=== William Penn's Arrival ===


William Penn reputedly landed at this site on October 27, '''1682''', when he first arrived in his colony. A plaque marks the traditional landing spot, though the exact location is uncertain.
On '''October 27, 1682''', William Penn arrived in his new colony aboard the ship ''Welcome'', landing at the Delaware River waterfront. The exact landing spot is disputed—Penn may have first stopped at Upland (now Chester) before reaching Philadelphia—but the area now called Penn's Landing commemorates this foundational moment in Philadelphia history.


=== Industrial Era ===
=== Maritime Heritage ===


For most of Philadelphia's history, the Delaware waterfront was a working port:
For nearly three centuries, the Delaware waterfront served as Philadelphia's commercial lifeline:
* Shipping wharves
* '''Colonial era:''' Wharves handled trade with England and the Caribbean
* Industrial facilities
* '''19th century:''' Immigration gateway and industrial port
* Commerce and trade
* '''20th century:''' Decline as shipping moved to larger container ports
* Limited public access


=== Urban Renewal ===
=== Urban Renewal ===


Penn's Landing was created as a public space in the 1960s and 1970s:
In the 1960s and 1970s, Philadelphia undertook an ambitious urban renewal project to "reconnect" the city to its waterfront:
* I-95 construction separated the waterfront from Old City
* '''I-95 construction:''' The interstate highway severed Center City from the river
* Public park development
* '''Penn's Landing development:''' Created elevated plaza and event spaces (1967)
* Festival site creation
* '''Criticism:''' The design created barriers rather than connections
* Ongoing redevelopment
 
=== Modern Revitalization ===
 
Since the 2010s, the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation has led transformation:
* [[Spruce Street Harbor Park]] (2014)
* [[Race Street Pier]] renovations
* [[Cherry Street Pier]] (2018)
* Ongoing capping of I-95 for expanded park space


== Attractions ==
== Attractions ==


=== Independence Seaport Museum ===
=== Blue Cross RiverRink ===
 
An outdoor ice skating rink operating November through March:
* '''Location:''' Main plaza level
* '''Amenities:''' Skate rental, warming cabin, food and beverages
* '''Events:''' DJ nights, special programming


The '''Independence Seaport Museum''' focuses on maritime history:
In warmer months, the space hosts '''Summerfest''' with roller skating and outdoor activities.
* Ship models and exhibits
* Historic vessels (USS Olympia, Submarine Becuna)
* Maritime art
* Educational programs


=== Spruce Street Harbor Park ===
=== Spruce Street Harbor Park ===


'''Spruce Street Harbor Park''' (seasonal, typically May-September):
A seasonal urban beach and beer garden (May-September):
* Hammocks along the waterfront
* Hammocks, string lights, and floating gardens
* Food vendors
* Food and craft beer vendors
* Beer garden
* Live entertainment
* Colorful lighting
* One of Philadelphia's most popular summer destinations
* Floating barges


=== RiverRink and Winterfest ===
=== Cherry Street Pier ===


'''RiverRink''' and '''Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest''' (seasonal):
Renovated historic pier featuring:
* Outdoor ice skating (winter)
* Artist studios and creative workspace
* Roller skating (summer)
* Seasonal garden and greenhouse
* Fire pits and warming stations
* Markets and events
* Holiday attractions
* Food vendors
* Open year-round


=== Race Street Pier ===
=== Race Street Pier ===


'''Race Street Pier*** - Elevated public park:
Modern pier park featuring:
* Views of the river
* Lawn areas and seating
* Landscaped pier
* Dramatic cantilevered walkway over the river
* Seating areas
* Views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge
* Connection to Old City
* Integrated public art


== Events ==
=== Historic Ships ===


Penn's Landing hosts numerous events:
Penn's Landing hosts several historic vessels:
* '''USS Becuna:''' WWII submarine
* '''Cruiser Olympia:''' Admiral Dewey's flagship from the Spanish-American War (at Independence Seaport Museum)
* '''Gazela:''' Historic Portuguese tall ship (occasionally docked)


=== Major Events ===
=== Independence Seaport Museum ===


* '''July 4th celebration*** - Fireworks, Wawa Welcome America
Located on Penn's Landing, the museum explores Philadelphia's maritime heritage through exhibits, historic ships, and educational programs.
* '''New Year's Eve*** - Fireworks
* '''Tall Ships festivals*** (occasional)
* Concerts and festivals throughout summer


=== Regular Programming ===
== Events ==
 
* Summer movie series
* Fitness classes
* Cultural festivals
* Food festivals


== I-95 Cap Project ==
Penn's Landing hosts numerous annual events:


Philadelphia is planning to cap a section of I-95 to better connect Penn's Landing with Old City:
* '''Welcome America:''' July 4th celebration with fireworks
* Remove barrier between waterfront and neighborhood
* '''Oktoberfest:''' German beer festival
* Create new park space
* '''New Year's Eve Fireworks:''' Midnight celebration on the river
* Improve pedestrian access
* '''Puerto Rican Day Parade:''' Cultural celebration
* Major infrastructure project
* '''Tall Ships Philadelphia:''' Occasional tall ship gatherings
* '''Concert Series:''' Summer concerts on the Great Plaza


== Getting There ==
== Visiting Penn's Landing ==


=== Public Transit ===
=== Getting There ===


* '''Market-Frankford Line (The L):*** 2nd Street Station
* '''SEPTA Market-Frankford Line:''' 2nd Street Station (3 blocks)
* '''SEPTA Bus Routes:*** 21, 25, 42
* '''SEPTA Bus:''' Routes 5, 17, 21, 25, 42
* '''Seasonal Ferry:''' Service to Camden (when operating)
* '''Parking:''' Surface lots and garages along Columbus Boulevard


=== Walking ===
=== Best Times to Visit ===


Penn's Landing is walkable from:
* '''Summer:''' Spruce Street Harbor Park in full swing
* [[Old City]] (5 minutes, though crossing I-95)
* '''Winter:''' RiverRink ice skating
* [[Society Hill]] (5-10 minutes)
* '''July 4:''' Welcome America fireworks
* [[Center City]] (15-20 minutes)
* '''Fall weekends:''' Festivals and markets


=== Ferries ===
=== Access ===


* '''RiverLink Ferry*** - Seasonal service to Camden waterfront attractions
The waterfront is separated from Old City by Columbus Boulevard (Route 34) and elevated areas. Access points:
* Pedestrian bridges from Market, Chestnut, Walnut, and Spruce Streets
* Street-level crossing at Market Street
* Elevated walkways from parking areas


== Camden Waterfront ==
=== Future Development ===


Across the Delaware River, the Camden waterfront offers:
Major projects planned for Penn's Landing include:
* Adventure Aquarium
* Capping I-95 to create a seamless park connecting Center City to the river
* BB&T Pavilion (concert venue)
* New residential and commercial development
* Battleship New Jersey
* Expanded public parks and trails
* Connected by RiverLink Ferry
* Improved pedestrian connections


== See Also ==
== See Also ==


* [[Old City, Philadelphia|Old City]]
* [[Delaware River]]
* [[Delaware River]]
* [[Old City, Philadelphia]]
* [[Spruce Street Harbor Park]]
* [[Cherry Street Pier]]
* [[Independence Seaport Museum]]
* [[Independence Seaport Museum]]
* [[Center City, Philadelphia|Center City]]
* [[William Penn]]


== References ==
== References ==
<references />
<references />
== External Links ==
* [https://www.delawareriverwaterfront.com Delaware River Waterfront Corporation]
* [https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/penns-landing/ Visit Philadelphia - Penn's Landing]
* [https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/blue-cross-riverrink/ Blue Cross RiverRink]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Penn's Landing Philadelphia - Delaware River Waterfront Guide
|title=Penn's Landing Philadelphia - Waterfront Park, Ice Skating, and Events
|description=Guide to Penn's Landing, Philadelphia's Delaware River waterfront. Spruce Street Harbor Park, RiverRink, Independence Seaport Museum, and seasonal attractions.
|description=Complete guide to Penn's Landing on the Delaware River waterfront. Spruce Street Harbor Park, Blue Cross RiverRink, Cherry Street Pier, festivals, and events at Philadelphia's historic landing site.
|keywords=Penn's Landing Philadelphia, Philadelphia waterfront, Spruce Street Harbor Park, RiverRink, Independence Seaport Museum, Delaware River Philadelphia
|keywords=Penn's Landing, Delaware River waterfront, Philadelphia waterfront, RiverRink ice skating, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Cherry Street Pier, William Penn landing, Philadelphia events
|type=Place
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Neighborhoods]]
[[Category:Landmarks]]
[[Category:Center City]]
[[Category:Parks]]
[[Category:Waterfront Districts]]
[[Category:Old City]]
[[Category:Attractions]]
[[Category:Waterfront]]
[[Category:Event Venues]]

Latest revision as of 21:04, 30 December 2025

Penn's Landing
TypeWaterfront park, landmark
Address101 South Columbus Boulevard
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodOld City
Phone(215) 922-2386
WebsiteOfficial site
Established1967
FounderCity of Philadelphia
OwnerCity of Philadelphia / Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
HoursOpen 24 hours (outdoor areas)
ProductsWaterfront recreation, events, attractions
StatusActive
Penn's Landing(215) 922-2386101 South Columbus BoulevardPhiladelphiaPAUS

Penn's Landing is a waterfront park and event space along the Delaware River in Old City, commemorating the traditional site where William Penn first landed in the New World in 1682. Stretching along Columbus Boulevard from Market Street to South Street, Penn's Landing serves as Philadelphia's primary connection to its riverfront, hosting festivals, concerts, outdoor activities, and seasonal attractions including an ice skating rink and beer garden.[1]

The area has undergone significant redevelopment in recent decades, with new attractions including Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier, and Spruce Street Harbor Park transforming the waterfront from an underutilized highway barrier into a vibrant destination. Ongoing projects aim to further connect Center City to the river and create a continuous waterfront park system.[2]

History

[edit | edit source]

William Penn's Arrival

[edit | edit source]

On October 27, 1682, William Penn arrived in his new colony aboard the ship Welcome, landing at the Delaware River waterfront. The exact landing spot is disputed—Penn may have first stopped at Upland (now Chester) before reaching Philadelphia—but the area now called Penn's Landing commemorates this foundational moment in Philadelphia history.

Maritime Heritage

[edit | edit source]

For nearly three centuries, the Delaware waterfront served as Philadelphia's commercial lifeline:

  • Colonial era: Wharves handled trade with England and the Caribbean
  • 19th century: Immigration gateway and industrial port
  • 20th century: Decline as shipping moved to larger container ports

Urban Renewal

[edit | edit source]

In the 1960s and 1970s, Philadelphia undertook an ambitious urban renewal project to "reconnect" the city to its waterfront:

  • I-95 construction: The interstate highway severed Center City from the river
  • Penn's Landing development: Created elevated plaza and event spaces (1967)
  • Criticism: The design created barriers rather than connections

Modern Revitalization

[edit | edit source]

Since the 2010s, the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation has led transformation:

Attractions

[edit | edit source]

Blue Cross RiverRink

[edit | edit source]

An outdoor ice skating rink operating November through March:

  • Location: Main plaza level
  • Amenities: Skate rental, warming cabin, food and beverages
  • Events: DJ nights, special programming

In warmer months, the space hosts Summerfest with roller skating and outdoor activities.

Spruce Street Harbor Park

[edit | edit source]

A seasonal urban beach and beer garden (May-September):

  • Hammocks, string lights, and floating gardens
  • Food and craft beer vendors
  • Live entertainment
  • One of Philadelphia's most popular summer destinations

Cherry Street Pier

[edit | edit source]

Renovated historic pier featuring:

  • Artist studios and creative workspace
  • Seasonal garden and greenhouse
  • Markets and events
  • Food vendors
  • Open year-round

Race Street Pier

[edit | edit source]

Modern pier park featuring:

  • Lawn areas and seating
  • Dramatic cantilevered walkway over the river
  • Views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge
  • Integrated public art

Historic Ships

[edit | edit source]

Penn's Landing hosts several historic vessels:

  • USS Becuna: WWII submarine
  • Cruiser Olympia: Admiral Dewey's flagship from the Spanish-American War (at Independence Seaport Museum)
  • Gazela: Historic Portuguese tall ship (occasionally docked)

Independence Seaport Museum

[edit | edit source]

Located on Penn's Landing, the museum explores Philadelphia's maritime heritage through exhibits, historic ships, and educational programs.

Events

[edit | edit source]

Penn's Landing hosts numerous annual events:

  • Welcome America: July 4th celebration with fireworks
  • Oktoberfest: German beer festival
  • New Year's Eve Fireworks: Midnight celebration on the river
  • Puerto Rican Day Parade: Cultural celebration
  • Tall Ships Philadelphia: Occasional tall ship gatherings
  • Concert Series: Summer concerts on the Great Plaza

Visiting Penn's Landing

[edit | edit source]

Getting There

[edit | edit source]
  • SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 2nd Street Station (3 blocks)
  • SEPTA Bus: Routes 5, 17, 21, 25, 42
  • Seasonal Ferry: Service to Camden (when operating)
  • Parking: Surface lots and garages along Columbus Boulevard

Best Times to Visit

[edit | edit source]
  • Summer: Spruce Street Harbor Park in full swing
  • Winter: RiverRink ice skating
  • July 4: Welcome America fireworks
  • Fall weekends: Festivals and markets

Access

[edit | edit source]

The waterfront is separated from Old City by Columbus Boulevard (Route 34) and elevated areas. Access points:

  • Pedestrian bridges from Market, Chestnut, Walnut, and Spruce Streets
  • Street-level crossing at Market Street
  • Elevated walkways from parking areas

Future Development

[edit | edit source]

Major projects planned for Penn's Landing include:

  • Capping I-95 to create a seamless park connecting Center City to the river
  • New residential and commercial development
  • Expanded public parks and trails
  • Improved pedestrian connections

See Also

[edit | edit source]

References

[edit | edit source]
  1. ↑ "Penn's Landing". Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. Retrieved December 30, 2025
  2. ↑ "Penn's Landing". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025
[edit | edit source]
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